The Mathis Show

Gracie Carlton is an interior design student with a passion for creativity, travel, food, and music. In this episode, we talk about her path into interior design, life in Atlanta, traveling through Europe, music, movies, and the hobbies that shape her life.

In this episode of Focus, I talk with Carter Vickers, creator of the Grand O’L Golf Trip. He explains how the annual retreat began, how it brings friends together through golf and fellowship, and the custom traditions, gifts, and experiences he has created for the trip.

In this episode of Sports Talk, we break down the World Cup, NBA free agency, early College Football Playoff picks, Clemson’s quarterback battle, UFC, the Tour de France, and which player we would build an NBA team around.

Grayson Mann is a Clemson University graduate and sports journalist who covers Clemson athletics and recruiting for TigerNet. In this episode, we discuss his path into sports media, the changing landscape of college athletics, the future of Clemson football, sports gambling, AI in journalism, and his long-term goals in the industry.

This episode traces New York City’s transformation from a small colonial port into one of the world’s most influential cities. We explore how the street grid, Central Park, bridges, subways, zoning, urban renewal, historic preservation, and modern policies shaped the city’s growth, challenges, and identity. Luke Vernon joins as a live audience member, contributing his perspective throughout the conversation.A Look Back At The Real Deuce: Times Square In The 1970s - Photo Gallery. (n.d.). Gothamist. Retrieved July 3, 2026, from https://gothamist.com/arts-entertainment/photos/a-look-back-at-the-real-deuce-times-square-in-the-1970sCongestion Relief Zone. (n.d.). MTA. Retrieved July 3, 2026, from https://www.mta.info/agency/bridges-and-tunnels/congestion-relief-zoneDirections, D., & Ltd, G. M., Domino Services. (2025, March 3). Exploring the New York City Map: A Journey Through NYC’s Five Boroughs. Driving Directions & Maps. https://www.drivingdirectionsandmaps.com/exploring-the-new-york-city-map-a-journey-through-nycs-five-boroughs/Frederick Law Olmsted. (2026). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Frederick_Law_Olmsted&oldid=1360332046Frederick Law Olmsted—Blog—For The Record. (2026, June 30). NYC Department of Records & Information Services. https://www.archives.nyc/blog/tag/Frederick+Law+OlmstedGardner, C. (2012, February 4). Old Urbanist: Narrow Streets and NYC: The Problem, or the Solution? Old Urbanist. https://oldurbanist.blogspot.com/2012/02/narrow-streets-and-nyc-problem-or.htmlInstagram. (n.d.). Retrieved July 3, 2026, from https://www.instagram.com/p/C_bRA6Yxil4/Jacobs, J. (n.d.). The Death and Life of Great American Cities 1st (first) edition Text Only. Modern Library.Joseph Bazalgette: How He Transformed London Sewers & Paved The Way For Your Loo | HistoryExtra. (n.d.). Retrieved July 3, 2026, from https://www.historyextra.com/period/victorian/joseph-bazalgette-who-london-sewers-work-toilets/Map of the Route of the New Croton Aqueduct, Old Aqueduct and Bronx River Pipeline, and the Watershed of the Croton, Bronx and Byram Rivers. (n.d.). Retrieved July 3, 2026, from https://nyheritage.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/collection/ipl/id/354/Mapping a London Epidemic. (n.d.). Retrieved July 3, 2026, from https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/mapping-a-london-epidemicMarques, S. (2019, May 17). THE EARLY TENEMENTS OF NEW YORK—DARK, DANK, AND DANGEROUS. NYC Department of Records & Information Services. https://www.archives.nyc/blog/2019/5/16/the-early-tenements-of-new-yorkdark-dank-and-dangerousOglethorpe and Savannah’s City Plan—Georgia Historical Society. (2023, November 3). Https://Www.Georgiahistory.Com/. https://www.georgiahistory.com/resource/james-edward-oglethorpe/oglethorpe-and-savannahs-city-plan/Paddy. (2021, August 10). A Map of early 19th Century New York. Paddy Hirsch. https://www.paddyhirsch.com/a-map-of-early-19th-century-new-york/Riis, J. A., & Sante, L. (1997). How the Other Half Lives: Studies Among the Tenements of New York. Penguin Classics.Robert Moses’s response to The Power Broker – Benjamin X. Hall. (2024, September 23). https://bxh.io/moses-responseSchulz, D. (2015, December 11). Manure Heaps, Fat Melting, and Offensive Privies: Mapping NYC’s 19th Century Nuisances | 6sqft. https://www.6sqft.com/manure-heaps-fat-melting-and-offensive-privies-mapping-nycs-19th-century-nuisances/Stetson, N. (2020, April 27). The Erie Canal’s Unique Geological History. Erie Canal Museum. https://eriecanalmuseum.org/erie-canal-unique-geological-history/The Greatest Grid | Museum of the City of New York. (n.d.). Retrieved July 3, 2026, from https://www.mcny.org/exhibition/greatest-grid-0Wedding-cake style. (2026). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Wedding-cake_style&oldid=1341597759

Sam Brown joins the show to share his path from basketball, homeschooling, and Clemson construction science management to working with his brothers at Belleview in residential and commercial construction. This episode covers family business, lessons from Harper, college stories, stock trading, music, books, future goals, and plenty of laughs along the way.

Armani Gracia joins the show for a sports talk episode breaking down the NBA Finals, the Knicks’ championship run, the Spurs’ collapse, Wembanyama’s next step, and what the future could look like for Brunson, LeBron, Giannis, and the league. The conversation also dives into UFC 250, the White House event, sports culture, legendary commercials, and why the biggest moments in sports keep fans talking.

The 2026 Q2 market check in brings Graham Burton back on to talk through what happened in the market, what trends stood out, and how he thinks through trading, risk, news, and uncertainty. The episode looks at major themes like interest rates, inflation, AI, tech, IPOs, crypto, housing, and the broader economy, while keeping the conversation casual, honest, and focused on how a young professional is making sense of the quarter. This is a conversation and is not financial advice.

Madison Echols works in medical education coordinator, where she supports third and fourth year medical students as they move through clinical training, exams, and the residency process. In this episode, we talk about leaving teaching, social media, pregnancy, Greenville, public education, technology, student loans, marriage, and figuring out the balance between work, passion, and real life.

Glenn works in the swimming pool industry, where he built a long career through sales, distribution, and relationship driven work. In this episode, we talk about growing up in the 80s, Clemson, marriage, parenting, faith, sports, technology, AI, and the simple importance of being kind.

Armani Gracia works in political communications and shares how Clemson, Capitol Hill, and his background shaped where he is today. In this episode, we talk about sports, politics, media, Greenville’s growth, and visions for the future.

Cason Whitmire is a former baseball player and longtime friend who shares stories about sports, growing up, faith, fitness, and figuring out life after college. In this episode, we talk about AI, childhood memories, baseball, yoga, work life balance, and what it looks like to grow up while still trying to enjoy the moment.

Heidi grew up between a ranch in Nebraska and Baltimore and has had a lot of different chapters in her life. In this episode, we talked about her childhood, Charleston, Greenville, skydiving, travel, work, friendships, and some of the lessons she has picked up along the way.

Riley Wasse is an industry analyst at ScanSource, where she works with research, data, strategy support, and internal projects that help connect teams across the company’s different brands and capabilities. In this episode, we talk about 75 Hard, discipline and routines, books and career growth, buying a house, relationships, and thoughts on how AI is changing the workplace.

Jadyn Wilner works for Mosaic Color and Additives, where he works with plastics for products tied to brands like Yeti and TimberTech. In this episode, we talk about his background growing up between North Carolina and South Carolina, his love for music, his fitness and weight loss journey, old gaming memories, future goals, and plenty of funny stories about friends and everyday life.

Susan Vernon is an interior designer and business leader who helped grow Dillard Jones and now leads Tribus Interior Design while mentoring others in the industry. In this episode, we talk about her path into design, building a business, family, small town roots, how AI is starting to shape work, and the importance of mentorship, work ethic, and people skills.

Andrew Van Norden is a basketball coach, former Southern Wesleyan player, and dedicated dad who is building his life around mentoring young athletes and growing in the game. In this episode, we talk about his path from Travelers Rest basketball to coaching at Veritas, lessons from adversity and fatherhood, and how sports, mindset, and leadership have shaped his approach to leading both his teams and his daughter.

This week’s guest is a runner, golfer, and fitness focused creator who shares his journey through training, competition, faith, and personal growth. In this episode, we talk about how he got into running, the highs and lows of race training, balancing fitness with real life, golf, mindset, and the community he is helping build through Bend Don’t Break.

Tandy is a basketball player, content creator, and entrepreneur who is currently building his own clothing brand while documenting his journey through vlogging. In this episode, we talk about basketball, starting a clothing brand, social media, and catch up on life and stories from the past.Follow Tandy🌐 Website / Clothing Brand https://stellanoir.shop 📺 Vlog YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@tandy.russell📸 Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/stellanoir.15/

Graham and I are doing something a little different today. This is not advice, it is just us talking through what we have learned from our own experiences. We are breaking it into five areas: personal finance, investing, community, faith, and mental and physical health, the stuff that really shapes your life. Hopefully, you can take something from it, maybe think about a few things differently, and just leave better than you came in.**Disclaimer: We are not financial planners or life coaches, and nothing in this video should be considered professional advice. This content reflects our personal experiences and opinions. Do your own research and consult a qualified professional when needed.**Introduction - 0:00:00Personal Finances - 0:03:40Investing - 0:15:40Community - 1:20:00Spiritual - 1:38:00Health and Mental Wellbeing - 1:46:35If you are looking to get started with investing or are seeking guidance, please reach out to Graham, as he would love to assist anyone looking for help.https://www.linkedin.com/in/graham-burton-984090179/

In this episode, we get into what nursing school is really like, from the exams to hospital rotations, and swap some childhood and college stories along the way. We talk about how life feels right now, what the future might look like, family plans, hobbies like baking, and true crime.

In this episode, I sit down with Kim Carr to talk about growing up in Gaffney, being the first girl to play in her church basketball league, playing volleyball in college, and eventually building a career in tech, where she worked her way up from answering phones to becoming a CTO. We get into competition, leadership, remote work, AI, retirement, and what pulled her back into basketball through Game Changers.

In this episode, I talk with Carla about where she came from, what shaped her, and what she has learned from her time in schools. We discussed community, culture, teaching, and her outlook on education. We also get into what it is like working with international students as they adjust to life here, how standardized testing has changed the classroom, and how education has changed.

In this episode, Mark shares his life story, starting with family stories to the turning points that shaped him along the way. We talk about career, parenting, and the simple habits that help you build a good life. It is an easy going conversation with honest lessons, real perspective, and practical takeaways.

In this episode of The Mathis Show, we dive into NASCAR and local late model racing, plus what it is actually like spotting for a driver and running iRacing. We talk money, sponsors, social media, and why racing culture feels like its own world. Then we shift into policing, ride-along stories, and other aspects of life.

Bill Roach joins the show for a wide ranging conversation on family traditions, work life balance, and the lessons you pick up through different seasons of life. He shares stories from his path through athletics and education leadership, including what he learned from students and how those experiences shaped the way he leads. We also get into charter schools, building strong teams, and thoughts on AI.

In this episode, I sit down with Suzanne Brown, founder and executive director of Upstate Homeschool Co-op. We discuss how it began, its growth, and where it is headed next, along with the backstory that led her to create it for families in the Upstate. Along the way, Suzanne shares thoughts on family life, raising kids, and the lessons she is learning as she goes. If you are interested in learning more about Upstate Homeschool Co-op, visit upstatecoop.org.

I’m excited to share The Mathis Show’s 2025 Guests’ Book Reviews. You’ll hear from several guests, each sharing their top three books of the year, plus a quick overview of why each one stood out. The full list is included at the end of the video. Enjoy!0:00 Intro0:02 Luke Vernon30:03 Courtney Brown46:13 Grace White58:44 Julie Mathis1:14:27 Sam Brown1:31:29 Riley Wase2:02:50 Jamie Dula2:23:59 Maddi Mathis2:38:15 Mark Mathis3:05:22 The Mathis’3:37:00 All Books

THANK YOU to everyone who has come on and been willing to share their stories. I have thoroughly enjoyed learning more about everyone. My hope remains that others are learning new things and taking life lessons from each episode. I plan to continue uploading videos weekly in 2026. If anyone has recommendations or would like to be a guest, please reach out. Thank you again to everyone for making this possible!

In this episode, we focus on the greatest basketball players across different decades and the current landscape of college football. We talk about how the game has evolved, what defines greatness in each era, and break down the biggest storylines shaping college football today.

In this episode, we focus on the top five Christmas songs and movies of all time with Armani Gracia. We discuss what makes each one memorable, the nostalgia they evoke, and why these classics continue to define the holiday season.

In this episode of Focus, I sit down with Keely to take a look back at the defining moments from 2001 to today. We discuss major historical events, such as 9/11, cultural shifts, and pop culture moments that shaped a generation. From world-changing headlines to iconic trends, this conversation reflects on how the past two decades have influenced the world we live in now.

We discuss the amazing details of our wedding, and show all the fun, intricate parts of it. The majority of the items are created by Keely.

We discuss the pros/cons of AI, where we see it going, and how we have experienced it.

In this episode, I sit down with Grace White for a wide-ranging conversation that blends holiday fun with real-life updates. We discuss Christmas traditions and how they evolve over time, along with what life looks like as she prepares for her wedding. Grace also shares what helps her stay creative, her approach to writing, and her plans to launch a new blog in the new year. We delve into lighter topics, such as Pilates and staying active, and take a quick turn into the world of ghosts and the stories behind them. We also reflect on the impact of social media and technology on work-life balance. We wrap up with thoughts on kids, family, and the season of life she is currently in.

Chris Dula joins the show for a wide-ranging conversation on philosophy and the everyday choices that shape how we perceive the world, drawing on lessons from raising kids and adapting to various seasons and environments throughout his life. We delve into how perspective can shape your reality, what genuine happiness looks like, and what it takes to build and sustain a strong relationship with a partner. We also discuss navigating life with intention and staying grounded through change, and then close by examining how AI is influencing the way we think, work, and connect.(Referenced Video: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/14TwhbGwotU/ )

In this episode, I sit down with Kelly Hunt to discuss his work in nonprofit pharmaceuticals and the path that led him there. He shares stories from a childhood split between South Carolina and Kentucky, his early jobs including time at a tire store and a pharmacy. Then, the path that led him into pharmacy school and learning how to learn there. We also cover his trial by fire at Walmart’s pharmacy, starting a family, his years at Publix, and how he launched his own pharmaceutical company during the 2008 financial crisis.

In this episode, I talk with Tom Friedlob about his path to a successful career in real estate development and property management. We look back at growing up in the 80s, his extended college years, and the unexpected turns that shaped his professional and personal journey. Tom also shares the story of meeting his wife, their 30 years of adventures together, raising a family, and much more along the way.

In this episode, I sit down with Luke Vernon to talk about his journey from studying accounting at Clemson University to his current career in banking. He shares his passions for wakeboarding, fishing, basketball, and golf, as well as how he was able to improve his golf game in a short period. We also discuss some of his favorite travel destinations and his thoughts on Clemson Football.

In this episode, I sit down with Jamie Dula to talk about her journey from growing up in Ohio to starting over in Florida during high school. She shares how becoming independent early on shaped her path through college at the University of Florida, joining a sorority, and working in a mental hospital. We also discuss her experiences raising a family, becoming a guidance counselor, moving to South Carolina, and how she’s embracing life as an empty nester.

In this episode, I sit down with Carter Vickers to trace his path from the Devil Dogs Sports Network at Travelers Rest High School to his role as Merchandise Manager with the Greenville Drive. We also dig into today’s college football landscape through his lens and how he organizes an annual golf trip that brings friends together.

In this episode, I sit down with Phillip Brown to discuss his journey growing up in a large family, being homeschooled, and how basketball led him from playing at TR High School to professional leagues overseas. Now back home, he shares life lessons from his experiences as a husband, parent, and entrepreneur, as he and his brother run a construction company.

A racing enthusiast and current iRacing streamer. We discuss growing up around racing. Current trends in the sport and various topics focused on racing.TikTok @jwfilms97

Electric high school basketball and baseball player, academic genius, and stock market crusher. We discuss his journey through life so far, covering his high school transformation, career, and learning the markets. Then, dive into college football, AI, books, and other random topics.

Talented childhood figure skater, wedding coordinator at Charming The Carolinas, and Operations Manager at Ava Laurenne Bride, Greenville, SC. We talk about her journey from wanting to own an oil rig, going through college during Covid, finding her passion, working through part-time jobs, to finally finding her way to store manager at one of the greatest bridal stores. With many stories along the way.

Talking to a former high school swimming phenom, medical specialist, triathlon participant, and amateur cyclist. We discuss starting swimming and the journey to the top, transitioning to cycling, the Tour de France, and how different ages bring new phases of being an athlete.

Talking to a former High School football legend, candidate for all 3 service academies, Naval Academy alumni, Nuclear School graduate, and future nuclear submarine operator. We discuss his decision to go into service, choosing between the three service academies, his experience at the Naval Academy, nuke school, and what his future holds as a submariner. Views expressed do not represent the opinions of or constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense, United States Navy, or the U.S. Government.

Talking to former horseback rider, "Star" of the Greenville Nutcracker, Clemson Alumni, current packing science specialist and marketing professional, and future Star. Happy Saturday! - Regards. We discus what it was like to grow up riding horses and going to shows. The pressures of performing while dancing and in public situations. The importance of hobbies throughout life. Finding a path through college and becoming young corporate adults.

Talking ball with a former D2 basketball player at NGU and AU, current GA coaching assistant, and future coach.